Best things to do in Stanley
Find out more about those top places in Stanley
The Falkland Islands: Where Penguins Outnumber People (and the Scenery Steals the Show!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to a South Atlantic Gem!
Okay, globetrotters, picture this: a remote archipelago in the South Atlantic, where the winds whisper tales of adventure and the wildlife basically throws its own daily parade. We're talking about the Falkland Islands, a destination that pops up in all those glossy tourism mags for a darn good reason! Seriously, ask anyone who's been, and they'll likely rave about how it's worth every bit of hype it gets.
Nestled in the vast expanse of the South Atlantic Ocean, this collection of numerous islands boasts a history that's seen its fair share of drama. Remember the "Falklands War"? Yeah, this stunningly beautiful place was the stage for that intense 10-week showdown between Argentina and the British. So, while the scenery might be serene now, the islands have a resilient spirit forged in history.
But let's talk about the good stuff, shall we? The Falkland Islands are renowned for their jaw-dropping scenery that looks like it's been photoshopped by Mother Nature herself, a rich heritage that blends maritime tales with pioneer spirit, and wildlife that's so abundant and unafraid, you'll feel like you've wandered onto a National Geographic set. Honestly, these islands have pretty much everything you could ask for in a tourist destination – adventure, beauty, and enough penguins to make you waddle with joy!
Our hilarious (and incredibly informative!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and things to do in this captivating archipelago. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from dramatic coastlines teeming with life to charming settlements with a unique character, all while uncovering the top attractions that make the Falkland Islands a truly special place.
Top Attractions: Where Nature Reigns Supreme (and History Leaves its Mark!)
The Falkland Islands are a playground for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Here are some of the top attractions you absolutely shouldn't miss:
Stanley: The Lively Capital with a Cozy Vibe
Stanley, the islands' charming capital, is a vibrant hub with a surprisingly cozy feel. Explore its colorful houses, wander along the picturesque harbor, and visit the historic Christ Church Cathedral with its iconic whalebone arch. Don't miss the Falkland Islands Museum to delve into the islands' fascinating history and heritage. It's the perfect starting point for your sightseeing adventures.
Volunteer Point: Penguin Paradise Extraordinaire!
Prepare for a cuteness overload at Volunteer Point, home to a massive colony of king penguins, gentoo penguins, and magellanic penguins. Witnessing these adorable creatures waddling, swimming, and squawking in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience and one of the top things to do in the Falklands. It's wildlife sightseeing at its absolute finest!
Gypsy Cove and Yorke Bay: Stunning Beaches and More Penguin Encounters
Just a short distance from Stanley, Gypsy Cove and Yorke Bay offer pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Keep an eye out for gentoo penguins and other seabirds that frequent this beautiful area. It's a fantastic spot for a scenic walk and more incredible wildlife sightseeing.
Battlefields of the Falklands War: A Testament to History
For those interested in the islands' more recent past, visiting the battlefields of the 1982 Falklands War offers a poignant and important experience. Sites like Mount Longdon, Goose Green, and San Carlos provide a glimpse into the events of the conflict and serve as a reminder of the islands' resilient spirit. Guided tours offer valuable context and insights into this significant period of history.
Things to Do Beyond the Main Sights: Embracing the Falklands' Wild Side
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly immerse yourself in the Falklands' unique charm:
- Wildlife Cruises and Boat Tours: Explore the coastline and offshore islands on a wildlife cruise. You'll have the chance to see a variety of seabirds, seals, dolphins, and even whales depending on the season.
- Hiking and Trekking: Discover the islands' rugged beauty on foot. Numerous trails offer stunning coastal views, opportunities to spot wildlife, and a chance to connect with the pristine natural environment.
- Birdwatching: The Falklands are a birdwatcher's paradise, with a diverse array of species, including albatrosses, petrels, and various types of penguins. Bring your binoculars!
- Fishing: The waters around the Falklands are teeming with fish, making it a great destination for angling enthusiasts.
- Visit Remote Islands: Consider taking a trip to some of the outer islands, each with its own unique landscape and wildlife. Places like Saunders Island and Carcass Island offer incredible opportunities for sightseeing and wildlife encounters.
So, if you're looking for places to visit that combine breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and unparalleled wildlife encounters, the Falkland Islands should be high on your list. Our travel guide promises an adventure filled with unforgettable sightseeing and unique things to do. Just be prepared for some incredible penguin sightings, windswept landscapes, and a warm welcome from the resilient people who call these remarkable islands home!
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Christ Church Cathedral
Built because of the Holy Trinity Church destroyed by the Island’s peat slip of 1886, the Majestic Christ Church Cathedral is not only a place of worship but a symbolic monument to Falkland Island. Consecrated in 1892, the cathedral was designed by Sir Arthur Blomfied. The cathedral was constructed using mainly local bricks and stone, it also has the most impressive interior and exterior styles with its famous stained-glass that can be seen from far away. At the front of the Cathedral is a whalebone arch monument, made from the jaws of two blue whales.
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Boot Hill
Located near Port Stanley is the boot hill, which is basically a place where people drop their shoes as part of tradition. There are many stories as to what started the boot hill – one of the stories is that of a local man whose leg was blown off by one of the mines left behind after the war between the Argentina and the UK, with his leg blown off the man decided to leave one of his boots at the hill. Another says that it began when retired workers of the airport near the hill retire, they leave their boots behind. As a tradition when visitors visit they also leave their footwear behind as well, leading the growth of the Boot Hill.
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Bertha’s Beach
Situated on East Falkland, Bertha’s Beach is significantly more different from most beaches. Classified as an “important Bird Area”, the beach gets its name from a shipwrecked barque – it is home to different species of penguins as well as several other animals. It also has a flora presence, with most of the plants endemic to the region.
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Blue Beach and Argentine Military Cemetery
Both built honoring the lost soldiers in the Falklands War. The Argentine Military Cemetery was set up by the British after the Argentinians refused to receive the bodies of the fallen soldiers claiming they were already buried at home. Set up atop a hill the graves are marked by white crosses, there are over 200 Argentine Soldiers laid to rest there.
The Blue Beach is the smallest of both cemeteries and was built for fallen British soldiers whose families agreed for them to be buried on the island, the rest of them were sent back home. Visitors can visit both cemeteries to pay their respects.
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The Shipwreck of Lady Elizabeth
For a bit of mystery visit the shipwreck of lady Elizabeth, built by Robert Thompson to replace the first Lady Elizabeth which sunk in Western Australia. The “second” Lady Elizabeth had been in service for over 30 years, until the December 4th, 1912 when she left Vancouver with cargo headed for Mozambique. On the way she got hit by strong waves and got damaged losing both men and cargo. Eventually she made it to Port Stanley where she was declared sea unworthy and left on the dock but on February 17, 1936, during a storm it drifted into Whale Bone Cove and has been there ever since. There are also stories of sailors getting missing and sick on board the ship.